9 Most Beautiful Lakes in Mongolia

Mongolia is the second-largest landlocked country in the world, yet it boasts hundreds of lakes, some of which stretch so wide they resemble inland seas. With their dramatic backdrops, pristine waters, and diverse wildlife, Mongolia’s lakes offer stunning scenery and unique experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here are nine of the most beautiful and significant lakes in the country that every traveler should explore.

1. Eight Lakes (Naiman Nuur) Located in the Uvurkhangai Province within the Khangai Mountain range, the Eight Lakes National Park (Naiman Nuur) is a spectacular high-altitude area of alpine meadows and larch forests. These volcanic lakes, formed by ancient eruptions, are accessible only on horseback or foot, preserving their untouched beauty.
– Elevation: ~2,400 m
– Notable birds: Black-throated loon, bar-headed goose, whooper swan
– Best time to visit: June to September
Expect cool weather year-round; even summer days rarely exceed 20°C. Rainfall averages 400–500 mm annually, and occasional snowstorms can occur in late spring and early autumn.

2. Lake Khuvsgul (Khövsgöl Nuur) Known as the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia,” Lake Khuvsgul is the largest freshwater lake in Mongolia by volume and the second-largest by area. Located in the northern province of Khuvsgul, this 2-million-year-old lake is one of the world’s most pristine water bodies.
– Length: 136 km | Depth: 262 m
– Elevation: 1,645 m
– Wildlife: Reindeer, yaks, endemic fish species, over 200 bird species
– Activities: Boating, kayaking, hiking, Tsaatan cultural visits
Its crystal-clear water is potable without treatment, and the surrounding Khuvsgul National Park is rich in flora and fauna.

3. Khagiin Khar Lake Tucked deep within the Khan Khentii Strictly Protected Area northeast of Ulaanbaatar, Khagiin Khar Lake is an untouched gem for true wilderness adventurers. It lies in a remote, roadless taiga where no human settlements or livestock are found.
– Elevation: ~1,800 m
– Access: Multi-day trekking or horseback trip
– Wildlife: Moose, lynx, wolves, brown bears, Siberian ibex
This lake sits near the continental divide that separates rivers draining to the Arctic and Pacific Oceans.

4. Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake (Terkh White Lake) Located in Arkhangai Province near the Khorgo Volcano, Terkh White Lake was formed by lava flows that blocked a river valley. Now part of Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan National Park, the lake is a popular destination for nature lovers and campers.
– Length: 16 km | Width: 6 km
– Activities: Swimming, fishing, kayaking
– Nearby: Khorgo dormant volcano, lava caves

5. Ugii Lake (Ögii Nuur) This mid-sized lake in Arkhangai Province is a haven for birdwatchers. Recognized under the Ramsar Convention as a Wetland of International Importance, Ugii Lake is a breeding ground for rare and endangered waterfowl.
– Area: ~25 sq. km
– Bird species: Dalmatian pelican, spoonbill, swan goose, grebes
– Facilities: Birdwatching station, local ger camps

6. Khyargas Lake Located in Uvs Province in western Mongolia, Khyargas Lake is one of the country’s large saline lakes. Surrounded by semi-desert and mountainous terrain, its southern shore features white limestone outcrops that create a dramatic landscape.
– Area: ~1,407 sq. km
– Altitude: 1,028 m
– Activities: Fishing, birdwatching, photography
The lake is home to endemic fish species and migratory birds, including rare and endangered ones.

7. Uvs Lake Uvs Lake, Mongolia’s largest saline lake, sits in the Great Lakes Depression. It and the surrounding wetlands are part of the UNESCO-designated Uvs Nuur Basin Biosphere Reserve.
– Area: 3,350 sq. km
– Wildlife: Over 220 bird species, snow leopard, argali sheep
– Environment: Cold winters, hot summers, arid steppe and desert landscapes
It is a critical habitat for migratory birds and has high biodiversity.

8. Buir Lake Straddling the Mongolia-China border in Dornod Province, Buir Lake is the largest lake in eastern Mongolia and renowned for its rich fish stocks and birdlife.
– Area: ~615 sq. km
– Wildlife: Swan goose, oriental stork, Baikal teal, Siberian crane
– Activities: Fishing, swimming, birdwatching
In summer 2002, more than half of the global swan goose population was recorded here.

9. Ulaagchnii Khar Lake Surrounded by sand dunes and mountain slopes in Zavkhan Province, Ulaagchnii Khar Lake is a dramatic contrast of blue water, golden sand, and green forested hills.
– Area: 25–30 sq. km | Depth: 48 m
– Altitude: ~2,000 m
– Notable features: Two islands, endemic fish
– Best for: Photography, relaxation, off-grid travel
This ancient lake is over 5,000 years old and remains one of Mongolia’s most visually striking natural treasures.